How Bronze Grave Markers are Made

Casting the Bronze Memorial Plaque

Bronze
grave markers are made from the alloy bronze which is composed
of copper and tin with small amounts of lead and zinc. When grave
markers are produced from bronze, a sand mold of the bronze plaque complete
with lettering is set up and prepared for pouring. Bronze ingots
are placed in a crucible or pot and melted under intense heat, usually
around 2000 degrees, and then the molten bronze is poured into the
mold.

Chasing the Bronze Plaque

After cooling, the bronze markers go through a process called chasing. The chasing process consists
of removing imperfections by lightly grinding the bronze plaque
until the desired surface texture and shape is achieved.
The worker will then define any areas of detail that might not
have transferred well in the casting process.

Finishing the Plaque

The
worker will then apply several coats of oxidation (paint-usually
dark brown) to the bronze plaque. Once the oxidation
is dry, he will (using a solvent) rub areas of the bronze grave
marker, removing the paint and exposing the top edge of the letters
and sculpted design features to reveal the natural bronze coloring.
This provides a beautiful contrast to the dark brown background.
After the details are complete, a lacquer coating is applied to
provide the final finish.

Assembly to a Granite
Base

The finished bronze plaque is then secured to
a granite base, usually 4" thick, with brass hardware. When the
bronze plaque is securely mounted on to the
granite, the two most durable materials are combined for timeless
unity. The finished product is a bronze grave marker which will
stand as an everlasting tribute to a loved one who has passed.

Bronze
Grave Markers are usually available with an assortment of beautiful designs to
choose from. All adult bronze grave markers can be further personalized
by adding an emblem or two and an epitaph.